Wisconsin Snowmobile Laws And Safety Tips
Before you hit the trails learn about Wisconsin’s Snowmobile laws and safety tips and then ride over 25,000 miles of Snowmobile trails in the beautiful state of Wisconsin.
Wisconsin is a long-time snowmobile destination that offers some of the best riding opportunities in the country, especially in the northern part of Wisconsin.
Please remember that at night there is a 55 mph speed limit. Do not overdrive what headlights can illuminate, such as trail markers or hazards.
Note that the temperatures fluctuates in the winter, snowfalls and snowmelts can cause unsafe conditions on the snowmobile trails. Also the DNR does not monitor conditions and they suggest that snowmobilers contact the local snowmobile clubs, local fishing clubs or outfitters to ask about the ice conditions in the area that you are riding.
Always remember that there is no such thing as 100% safe ice. Snomobilers cannot judge ice strength by factors like age, thickness, appearance, or temperature, especially when the ice is snow-covered.
There’s nothing more desirable than making fresh snowmobile tracks in the marvelous glistening winter snow. With more than 25,000 miles of groomed snowmobile trails across the state of Wisconsin, there’s plenty of trails to delve into.
View Wisconsin’s Snowmobile Snow Report Conditions by Counties>
No matter which snowmobile trail you choose to journey on, think smart before you start with these valuable tips:
Never consume alcohol or drugs before or during your ride.
Always wear your helmet and safety gear.
Stay on marked snowmobile trails and routes.
Travel with a friend, carry your cell phone and be sure to let people know where you are going and when you’ll return home.
Slow down and use extra caution at nighttime. Remember that there is a 55-mph speed limit at night.
Dress appropriately, carry a first aid kit and navigation tools.
Take a snowmobile safety course.
Visit the DNR Safety Education webpage for details and to locate a class or take a snowmobile safety online course.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT SNOWMOBILING
Are Studs Legal To Use In Wisconsin? View Studs here.
YES. There are no restrictions, however irresponsible practices crossing roadways and crossing driveways may jeopardize future use of snowmobile trails.
Can ATVs equipped with tracks and/or skis be registered as a snowmobile?
No tracked system modifies an ATV to the point it cannot beridden on a trail. They may be used on private property with per-mission and on frozen waterways. Please note that not all trails are open to ATVs.
Can I dual register my snowmobile for Wisconsin and my home state?
Yes. Wisconsin has no restrictions for a non-resident to register their snowmobile in Wisconsin. Check with your home state for any restrictions they may have.
I have seen snowmobile tracks on the trails prior to the official open date, can I assume that the trails are open for legal riding?
No. Snowmobile club members or government personnel may have permission to ride the trails to conduct an inspection prior to officially opening the trails. Also, many of the trails run across private property which the landowner can ride on whenever they want. Always check with the local trail hotline or Sheriff ’s Department.
Is there a special permit that would allow antique or vintage snowmobiles to ride on the public trails for an event?
Yes. Snowmobiles 35 years and older may be registered as an antique. This registration is good for three years. Fee – $20. Renewal Fee – $5. Owners of snowmobiles registered as antiques are not required to display a trail pass while operating on a public snowmobile corridor. To legally operate the antique snowmobile the registration decals must be prominently displayed on both sided of the cowling.
Are there official dates on which trails open and close?
Trail openings and closings are determined at the county level. Land owner easements usually dictate the earliest and latest the trails can open and close. Normally, these easements run from December 1st through March 31st. Each county usually has a“trail hotline” number that provides the most recent status of their trails.
I know I can ride the ditch, 10 feet from a county or state highway and completely off the road along town roads. What if the ditch is toosteep or narrow to ride, can I then go on the road for a short distance?
No, you must abide by these distances at all times except whencrossing a bridge, culvert or railroad right-of-way and after yield-ing to all vehicular traffic first.
Can I legally ride the ditch (as described above) when the rest of the trails are closed? Even if there is a marked trail in the ditch?
Yes, you may ride the ditch at any time and even if there is amarked trail there.
Are there any restrictions on water skipping?
Yes. Snowmobiles modified in any way to aid in over the water transportation are considered boats and must abide by all boating regulations. This would include the prohibition from operating at faster than slow-no-wake speed within 100 feet of shore. Waterskipping events are exempt from these restrictions; however a local Water Exhibition permit is required. Local ordinances may exist so check with local authorities
PENALTIES:
Fines for violating snowmobile laws can range up to $2000. You could also face jail time and the courts may revoke your privilege to operate a snowmobile.
Really the ultimate price for violating the snowmobile rules is the negative effect on the image of all snowmobilers.
If you need to obtain snowmobile trail maps, contact the local snowmobile club or chamber of commerce for more information.
